The White House, an emblem of American political power and history, has an intriguing connection to a small village in Wales. Nestled in the heart of South West Wales, Pontardawe has made its mark on one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Here’s the fascinating story of how a piece of Wales ended up on the roof of the White House.
A Historical Discovery
From the declarations of war in 1917 and 1941, to the introduction and repeal of Prohibition, and the Watergate scandal, the White House has witnessed significant historical events. What is less well known is that the president’s residence has experienced these events under a roof made right here in Wales.
Originally, the White House had a slate roof when it was completed in 1800. However, by the late 19th century, the need for a more durable and fire-resistant material led to the replacement of the slate with a metal roof. This metal was sourced from William Gilbertson and Company of Pontardawe in the Swansea Valley which manufactured the terne-plate roof for the West Wing. That's because Pontardawe, located in the Swansea Valley, was an industrial hub during the 19th century, known for its steel and tinplate works. The steel produced here was highly regarded for its strength and quality.
The construction of the White House's new roof using Pontardawe steel began in the late 1880s and was completed by the early 1890s. This renovation was part of a broader effort to modernise and expand the White House, ensuring it could serve the evolving needs of the U.S. presidency. The metal roof was a critical component in this transformation, providing a more robust structure that could better withstand the elements and the passage of time and the selection of Terne-plates from Pontardawe for the original metal roof laid a strong foundation that subsequent renovations continued to build upon.
Their use on the White House had remained little more than a legend among the residents of Pontardawe until recently. Now, a recent discovery in the US congressional archives provided confirmation for an order in 1886 for 135 boxes of Gilbertson’s terneplate roofing.
The Manufacturing Process
The production of Gilbertson's Terne-plates involved several intricate steps, showcasing the advanced industrial techniques of the time. The process began with the rolling of iron ingots into thin sheets, which were then coated with tin to prevent rusting and provide a polished finish. The workers in Pontardawe were highly skilled, ensuring that each piece of tinplate met stringent quality standards before being exported.
Once the Pontardawe tinplate arrived in the United States, it was transported to Washington, D.C., where skilled American craftsmen installed it on the White House roof. This collaboration highlighted the international cooperation between Welsh manufacturers and American builders. The installation process required precision and expertise to ensure that the roof was both functional and aesthetically pleasing.
Despite its industrial prowess, the decline of the tinplate industry in the mid-20th century led to the eventual closure of the works and the site opposite Cwmtawe School, is now home to a large supermarket.
Untill recently, the site included the remains of two ranges which were state-of-the-art for their time. Sadly, these remaining listed buildings were recently demolished with listed building consent. The demolition of these structures symbolises the profound changes in the local economy and landscape, yet the legacy of Gilbertson’s contribution to both local and international history endures.
The Legacy of Pontardawe’s Contribution
Today, Ty Mawr is the only surviving evidence of the former tinplate works. The building, which was formerly used as an extra care facility, is said to have been empty since the late 2000s and has since been designated as a building of local Importance.
Once completed, plans say the two-story detached property, identified as a building of local importance by Neath Port Talbot Council, will be turned into “12 modern apartments for social rent, consisting of six one-bedroom and six two-bedroom units”.
It will also see the creation of a new access point from the existing road, as well as improved parking arrangements. Revitalising this beloved landmark will hopefully guarantee its legacy for future generations.
Follow in the footsteps of William Gilbertson
As well as the local works, by 1900 William Gilbertson expanded the business and developed a steelworks site at Port Talbot docks, the site which is now home the dramatic TATA Steelworks. His wealthy lifestyle meant he lived in the Glanrhyd Plantation, located immediately to the North West of Pontardawe. This was a combination of two fairly distinctive sites; the wooded valley following the Clydach river known as ‘Cwm Du’, whilst his Glanrhyd Plantation is the remains of the old Glanrhyd Estate, which belonged to the Gilbertson family.
The Glanrhyd Estate is still situated up on a plateau on the western edge of the gorge; which includes the remains of the estate and even an outdoor swimming pool which is still visible beneath the trees of the plantation and the shrubs and trees that have grown since the estate was abandoned. This means you can still follow in footsteps of William Gilbertson himself by walking around his Cwm Du Glen estate in Pontardawe.
You can follow this walk here: https://www.jcexplores.com/post/explore-cwmdu-glen-glan-rhyd-plantation-pontardawe
Final Thoughts:
The use of Pontardawe steel for the White House roof is a testament to the global reach of Welsh industry during the height of the industrial revolution. It highlights how even small towns played a role in shaping significant historical landmarks. Today, the White House stands not only as a symbol of American leadership but also as a reminder of the international connections and contributions that have helped sustain it through the centuries.
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